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Biological Sciences (Genetics and Genomics)

BSc (Hons)

Key facts
Overview
How to apply
Tuition fees
Learning and assessment
Study Abroad
After you graduate
Our Staff
Free language courses

Key facts

UCAS code

C400

Start dates

September 2019 / September 2020

Location

Abingdon and Witney College

Headington

Course length

Full time: 3 years, 4 years sandwich

Part time: part-time study is possible

Department

Department of Biological and Medical Sciences

UCAS Tariff Points

112

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Overview

Genetics and genomics is developing so rapidly that the printing of organs could make organ donation obsolete. Our Biological Sciences (Genetics and Genomics) degree blends molecular, genetic, genomic and broader biological studies.

You will have the flexibility to tailor the course to suit you. You can choose modules within the course to focus on animals, humans or cells. On this course you will:

  • work with data from molecular lab techniques
  • handle and analyse genomes
  • develop the skills bioscientists need for this new era of genomics and big data. 

We have a reputation for outstanding research work.  The Oxford area is an important centre for the bioscience industry. We have world class research centres like the Nuffield and Churchill hospitals on our doorstep.  So you can improve your employability with active engagement in the local bioscience sector. And we are home to the Oxford Brookes Student Bioinnovation Hub, an initiative to enhance engagement with the Life Sciences industry.

Students working in the lab

How to apply

Typical offers

UCAS Tariff Points: 112

A Level: BBC

IB Points: 30

BTEC: DMM

Preferred subjects include: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Human Biology and Physics

Students studying more than one science subject may receive a lower offer.

We seek to admit students who have the potential to make good scientists and accept that qualifications are not the only indicator of future potential. Typical offers also include:

  • A-level grades BB plus 2 AS-levels at grade C (equivalent to 112 UCAS Tariff points)
  • 1 12-unit vocational A-level at grade BB plus 1 A-level or 2 AS-levels at grade C
  • other recognised qualifications, eg BTEC Nationals or Scottish qualifications (equivalent to 112 UCAS Tariff points).

If your combination of qualifications doesn't match our typical offer, please contact our admissions tutor.

Wherever possible we make our conditional offers using the UCAS Tariff. This combination of A-level grades would be just one way of achieving the UCAS Tariff points for this course.

Entry requirements

Specific entry requirements

GCSE: 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 (C), or above, including Mathematics, English Language and 2 Sciences

You must have studied science post-16, either at A-level or equivalent. If you do not have a background in science, we encourage you to consider our Life Sciences foundation year taught at Abingdon and Witney College.

Please also see the University's general entry requirements.

English language requirements

Please see the University's standard English language requirements.

English requirements for visas

If you need a student visa to enter the UK you will need to meet the UK Visas and Immigration minimum language requirements as well as the University's requirements. Find out more about English language requirements.

Pathways courses for international and EU students

If you do not meet the entry requirements for this degree, or if you would like more preparation before you start, you can take an international foundation course. Once you enrol, you will have a guaranteed pathway to this degree if you pass your foundation course with the required grades.

If you only need to meet the language requirements, you can take our pre-sessional English course. You will develop key language and study skills for academic success and you will not need to take an external language test to progress to your degree.

Terms and Conditions of Enrolment

When you accept our offer, you agree to the Terms and Conditions of Enrolment. You should therefore read those conditions before accepting the offer.

Credit transfer

Many of our courses consider applications for entry with credit for prior learning. Each application is individually assessed by our credit entry tutors. 

If you would like more information about whether or not you may be eligible for the award of credit, for example from an HND, partly-completed degree or foundation degree, please contact our Admissions team.

We operate the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). All undergraduate single modules are equivalent to 7.5 ECTS credits and double modules to 15 ECTS credits. More about ECTS credits.

Application process

Full time Home / EU applicants

Apply through UCAS

Part time Home / EU applicants

Apply direct to the University

International applicants

Apply direct to the University

Full time applicants can also apply through UCAS

Tuition fees

Please see the fees note
2019/20
Home/EU Full Time
£9,250
Home/EU Part Time
£750 per single module
International full time
£14,280

Questions about fees?

Contact Student Finance on:
financefees@brookes.ac.uk

Tuition fees

Questions about fees?

Contact Student Finance on:
+44 (0)1865 483088
financefees@brookes.ac.uk
2019/20
Home/EU Full Time
£9,250
Home/EU Part Time
£750 per single module
International full time
£14,280

Please note tuition fees for Home/EU students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students in line with an inflationary amount determined by government. Tuition fees for International students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students.

Oxford Brookes University intends to maintain its fees for new and returning home and EU students at the maximum permitted level.

Please be aware that some courses will involve some additional costs that are not covered by your fees. Specific additional costs for this course, if any, are detailed below.

Additional costs

There are some additional costs for the course including the purchase of a lab coat, safety goggles, stationary such as a lab notebook, printing and text books (though the library will have some copies). If the student opts for the placement year then there will be living costs associated with this year but we encourage students to seek a placement with a bursary or a paid placement to mitigate this. Work experience also may also incur travel costs.

Learning and assessment

Teaching focuses on applying theory in practical settings. You will focus on the application of fundamental biology to real life issues.

In Year 1 you’ll learn:

  • scientific writing
  • presentation
  • numeracy skills

In Year 2 there are compulsory modules such as Data Carpentry and Interrogating Genomes. These cover bioinformatics and analysing large datasets.

Within Year 3 various modules develop Research literacy.

You will learn the skills needed for writing grant proposals or carrying out consultancy activity.

In the Advanced Genetics and Genomics module you will address a current research question in the biological sciences. You’ll use the latest methodologies in Genetics and Genomics to prove awareness of current research.

Students sitting around a table in the John Henry Brookes Building

Study modules

Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 3 (optional placement year)

Year 1

Biodiversity - (double credit module)*

This module takes an integrated approach to the diversity of life. It looks at the classification of the living world, the theory of evolution that links all biology and interactions between organisms and their environment. The module concentrates on major structures and patterns in plants, animals and fungi, how they vary within each kingdom and the interrelationships of some of the phyla.

Cell Biology & Genetics - (double credit module)*

An introduction to cell function. Students will study the different types of molecules within cells and learn about cellular organelles and their functions.

Intro to Biochemistry A*

The module provides a general introduction to the chemical principles that underpin a contemporary understanding of cell function at the molecular level. An overview of stoichiometry and reactions, chemical bonds and structures, and chemical equilibrium underpins content exploring the chemistry of familiar cellular macromolecules (DNA, proteins, carbohydrates, fats).

Intro to Biochemistry B*

Cellular pathways for synthesis of these macromolecules will be outlined, and a study of protein structure will be linked with enzyme function and the chemical changes occurring within cells (kinetics and mechanisms). Catabolic pathways will be studied along with cellular energy metabolism.

The Practicing Scientist - (double credit module)*

A module designed to introduce, extend and apply the fundamental skills that underpin the practice of science. Key themes include hypothesis testing and the design of scientific investigations, mathematical topics and their application, the principles and application of statistical methods, and the recording, reporting and presentation of science.

Year 2

Animal Behaviour

An advanced study of the physiological, morphological and evolutionary mechanisms underlying behavioural traits and their variation in animals. Within this module, consideration is given to the influences of resource type and quality on animal behaviour, the evolutionary development of behavioural traits and the acquisition of new behaviours.

Animal Developmental Biology

This module will present students with an in-depth introduction to the principles of developmental biology, and provide a broad overview of development processes and their regulation in animals.

Biochemistry of Cell Function - (double credit module)

The module considers the biochemistry of eukaryotic cells with an emphasis on mammalian tissues. Using several approaches, we will explore the biochemistry of eukaryotic cells, including the chemical nature of the compounds that are involved in cellular processes. Examples of diseases caused by failures in these processes reinforce understanding and provide relevance and application.

Career Development*

The module aims to provide essential training in professional career management skills designed to assist you in actively planning and preparing for your future career. It will take you through a career development cycle starting with discovering your potential, exploring opportunities (jobs, post graduate study or training), plotting a way forward and making it happen.

Cell Biology

This module focuses on eukaryotic cell structures and functions and highlights examples from animals, plants and fungi. The composition and functions of the cytoskeleton, cell membranes and cell components including chloroplasts, mitochondria and the nucleus will be discussed. In addition, cellular processes such as cell division and cell death will also be examined. Students will use well established methods such as fluorescent microscopy of living cells to experimentally investigate topics from lectures in lab classes.

Data Carpentry*

This module introduces students on how to get biologically meaningful answers from data while providing a generic introduction to concepts of ‘big data’ and machine learning. This conceptual framework is delivered via a more practical approach where students learn how to program, analyse, manage and communicate data from diverse biological disciplines using the R language for statistical computing.

Genetics*

This module focuses on patterns of genetic inheritance at different scales from individuals to populations to evolutionary lineages. It will develop an understanding of Mendelian/transmission, quantitative, population, ecological and evolutionary genetics and an ability to analyse and interpret genetic data.

Interrogating Genomes*

This module provides an introduction to computational thinking in the biological sciences. This involves learning programming to tailor bespoke solutions to biological problems and developing a capacity to approach biological problems from a computational perspective (computational thinking). Additionally students are introduced to a variety of – omic data types (RNA, DNA, Protein-level), public databases and publicly available software for bioinformatics applications.

Microbiology

An introduction to microbiology considering the structures, metabolism, regulatory signals, replication and growth exhibited by microorganisms. You will learn how to work in a Category 2 microbiology laboratory and have the opportunity to plan and execute simple experimental procedures that are important to work with bacteria and viruses. You will practise aseptic techniques, and several procedures used in diagnostic labs for bacterial identification.

Molecular Biology*

A study of structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes at the molecular level with an overview on the experimental evidence that has contributed to current concepts, models and paradigms and practical experience of key molecular biology laboratory techniques. The module focuses on aspects of genetic engineering and environmental applications of modern molecular tools, with emphasis on phylogeny, ecology and evolution.

Work Experience

The ‘Work Experience’ module is a supervised work-based learning experience. You will spend a minimum of 60 hours in a working environment that is relevant to your future career path. By learning how to reflect on your learning and professional development, and how to present your insights in a written essay and in a video, you will develop useful skills for your future job applications.

Year 3

Project - (double credit module)*

An individual project related to some aspect of the student's degree subject. The associated practical work may be conducted in a research or industrial laboratory or in the field, depending on the nature of the project.

Professional Skills and Techniques*

This module focuses on the development of the professional skills, personalised to your career ambitions. You will select three ‘podules’ from a selection of podules, which draw upon our research expertise and links with external partners. Podules will cover a wide range topics relevant to your degree, such as advanced microscopy, protein biochemistry, species identification, geographic information systems, entrepreneurship or science communication. Each podule consists of an introductory lecture, plenty of hands-on experience, and a seminar in which you will learn more about the application of ‘your’ skill in different contexts.

Advanced Genetics and Genomics*

The emphasis in this module is on the major theoretical and technological advances in Genetics and Genomics, and their significance in addressing the current challenges in biological and medical research. The module will specifically focus on the use of natural variation for the study of population history, selection inference, and analysing variation in complex traits; the use of comparative genomics and phylogenetics to understand evolutionary relationships and investigate gene and genome evolution; the role of microbiomes in human health and ecosystems and the study of gene function.

Molecular Biology of Cancer

An exploration of the nature and causes of cancer with particular emphasis on the molecular biology of underlying mechanisms. The module is framed around the concepts of the ‘hallmarks of cancer’ and will also explore the emerging field of cancer genomics as well as cover the therapeutic options for tumour patients.

Advanced Topics in Wildlife Conservation

The module will identify and deliver the concepts and practical skills used in wildlife conservation, integrating conservation at the landscape scale with other wider countryside land management. This will develop understanding of the use of practical conservation management in maintaining and enhancing biodiversity. The inter-disciplinary nature of the module is emphasised in identifying the role of policy and statutory controls for wildlife management, and the role of conservation science in their development and delivery.

Evolution and Animal Development - (double credit module)

The shape, size and colour of each animal are produced during its development. This means that in order to study the evolution of animal biodiversity we need to study the evolution of development. In this module, we will not only discuss animal evolution at various timescales and levels, but we will also follow the development from egg (cell) to adult in a variety of animal species and compare the developmental programmes involved.

Advanced Cell Biology and Bioimaging

This module is designed to give students an in-depth appreciation of currently topical areas in the cell biology of mammals, yeast and plants, and the techniques underpinning the associated research. Topics to be covered will include cell signalling, the endomembrane system, and the cell cycle.

Genomic Medicine

The key areas of genomics, human genetics and genetic variation will be introduced. An understanding of genetics in disease and how genomic medicine can be utilised to elucidate disease mechanisms and biology will be developed. Basic genetics and genomics will be discussed to enable development of understanding the role of genetics in disease and how genomic information can be utilised to elucidate disease mechanisms and biology.

Science and Humanity

Science has had a huge impact on all aspects of our lives, and the overall aim of this module is to set that influence in its social and historical context. We will address alternative views of the world, how they have been developed or replaced in the context of science and have a clear look at the strengths and weaknesses of a scientific world view. We will address ideas about the value of other life forms and introduce environmental philosophy.

Independent Study in Life Sciences

A study (normally library-based) of a topic of the student's choosing that is relevant to the student's programme but not formally offered as part of the taught course.

Year 3 (optional placement year)

Industrial Placement

The Industrial Placement module lets you gain first-hand experience of applying theoretical and practical science within a professional environment, for example within an industrial biotechnology company or a laboratory. You will gain insight into the work of a professional scientific employer and develop both practical laboratory skills and the ability to self-assess. We will suggest employers but experience tells us that successful students are usually those who are pro-active in searching out their own placements. Many placements do come with a salary, but sadly some employers do not feel they are obliged to offer a salary, and that the expenses they incur by hosting and training you are sufficient outlay for them. This issue of salary will have implications for you and for your funding status. We will give you advice on this during the application process, but you should make sure you understand your situation fully by talking with the Student Finance department.

* = Required

Please note: As our courses are reviewed regularly as part of our quality assurance framework, the modules you can choose from may vary from that shown here. The structure of the course may also mean some modules are not available to you.

Learning and teaching

Throughout the course we focus on applying fundamental biology to real life issues. You will apply your knowledge in practical settings, either in the lab or out in the field. 

You have the opportunity to gain a wide range of skills, including:

  • molecular techniques (for example, for the study of DNA, RNA and proteins)
  • bioinformatics
  • advanced light and electron microscopy
  • field-based methods for species and landscape assessment
  • cutting edge methodologies for the study of evolution and developmental biology

Our teaching methods include: 

  • lectures
  • practicals
  • tutorials
  • seminars
  • surgeries

Assessment

Assessment methods used on this course

Our assessment methods include:

  • essays
  • reviews
  • examinations
  • laboratory or field notebooks
  • scientific reports
  • posters
  • oral presentations

You’ll reflect on your progress with assignment feedback together with your diaries. 

Assessment is designed to shape and develop learning, not simply measure it. 

Study Abroad

You may be able to go on a European or international study exchange while you are at Brookes. Most exchanges take place in the second year. Although we will help as much as we can with your plans, ultimately you are responsible for organising and funding this study abroad.

Learn more about studying abroad

After you graduate

Career prospects

Our graduates have developed careers in a variety of stimulating roles in biological organisations. Some of our recent graduates are now working in the agro-chemical and biotech industries. 

With this degree you will be highly employable. So you can capitalise on the increasing demand for biologists with a firm knowledge of the latest methodologies and theories in the field of Genetics and Genomics. Our students have a good record of gaining employment relevant to their degree. And employers value the graduate attributes developed at Brookes.

Some of our students choose to gain degree-level employment in a wide range of contexts including:

  • management
  • journalism
  • the media. 

Further study

Students have continued studying and gone on to gain postgraduate qualifications including PhDs or our MSc degree in Conservation Ecology or MSc Medical Genetics and Genomics.

Our Staff

Dr Daniela Santos Nunes

"I currently lead the Phenotypic Evolution and Adaptation research group, which focuses on molecular evolution, population genetics and evolutionary developmental biology."

Read more about Daniela

Dr Daniela Santos Nunes

"I currently lead the Phenotypic Evolution and Adaptation research group, which focuses on molecular evolution, population genetics and evolutionary developmental biology."

Read more about Daniela

Free language courses

Free language courses are available to full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students on many of our courses, and can be taken as a credit on some courses.

More about free language courses

Programme Changes: On rare occasions we may need to make changes to our course programmes after they have been published on the website.

For more information, please visit our Changes to programmes page.